The high school senior market is one which can be very profitable.
It is also extremely competitive.
In order to compete effectively a photographer should learn what has worked for other photographers in this market.
This article offers some suggestions which many photographers have found to be effective when working in the high school senior market.
1.
Market through Facebook.
Most seniors trust the opinion of their peers far more than the opinion of an advertising brochure.
A photographer can advertise a free photo session for any high school junior that is wiling to be a rep for the studio.
She would get a free photo session, prints and perhaps even cash for every person she refers.
Produce some images of her and tag her with them on Facebook.
This will allow all of their friends to see her images and see that the came from you.
In this way, a photographer gets an implied recommendation from that rep.
from someone the seniors trust.
2.
Shoot high school proms.
This will give you a chance to meet with a number of high schools students.
They will have an opportunity to get to know you and your work.
If they like your personality and work style, many of them will go with you for their senior portrait.
It is always easier to go with a known quantity than an unknown quantity.
3.
Provide the seniors with information on how to prepare for their photo shoot.
For many seniors this will be the first time they have their portraits taken outside of the school setting.
Even if they have had family shots taken, their parents likely took care of most of the details.
They will appreciate tips on how to dress, whether or not to use make-up and if so how much, and what to do with their glasses during the shoot.
4.
Offer a simple package.
Senior boys often do not look forward to having their pictures taken.
They may be more likely to book a session that is inexpensive and short (half an hour).
That doesn't mean a photographer should book these sessions back-to-back.
Often the senior's mother will ask for additional time.
Despite the initial simplified packages, many of these people upgrade to more extensive packages.
The high school senior market can be exciting and profitable.
The above are steps that will help a photographer succeed in that market.